NCPOR Voyage Support Assistant Jobs 2026 — Job Details

About the Organisation

The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, is the nodal agency for the country's polar and ocean research activities. NCPOR plays a crucial role in planning, promoting, coordinating, and executing the entire gamut of polar and southern ocean scientific research. It manages India's permanent research stations in Antarctica (Maitri and Bharati) and the Arctic (Himadri), facilitating cutting-edge scientific investigations in glaciology, atmospheric sciences, biology, and oceanography. Working with NCPOR offers a unique opportunity to contribute to India's strategic scientific endeavors in some of the world's most challenging and pristine environments.

Role & Responsibilities

The Voyage Support Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of India's research bases in Antarctica. Key responsibilities include:

• Operation and routine maintenance of various vehicles, including snowmobiles, PistenBullys, and other specialized polar transport equipment.
• Maintenance and troubleshooting of life support systems, including power generators, heating systems, water purification units, and waste management facilities at the research stations.
• Assisting scientists and researchers with field logistics, equipment deployment, and sample collection in extreme weather conditions.
• Ensuring adherence to strict safety protocols and environmental regulations in the Antarctic region.
• Participating in search and rescue operations, if required.
• Maintaining inventory of spare parts, fuel, and other essential supplies.
• Contributing to the overall well-being and operational efficiency of the base camp team.

This role demands high levels of physical fitness, technical aptitude, and the ability to work effectively in isolated, challenging environments for extended periods (6 to 18 months).

Eligibility Criteria

While specific qualifications are not detailed in the initial notification, candidates are generally expected to be "trained manpower" with relevant experience in vehicle operation, mechanical maintenance, or life support system management.

• Educational Qualification: Refer to the official NCPOR notification for precise academic requirements. Typically, a diploma or ITI certification in mechanical, electrical, or a related engineering field is preferred.
• Experience: Prior experience in operating heavy machinery, vehicle maintenance, or managing utility systems, especially in remote or challenging environments, will be highly advantageous.
• Age Limit: Please consult the official advertisement for age relaxation details.
• Physical & Medical Standards: Candidates must meet stringent physical and medical fitness standards required for working in the extreme polar environment. This includes passing comprehensive medical examinations and psychological assessments.
• Nationality: Indian citizens are eligible to apply.

Selection Process

The selection process for Voyage Support Assistant positions at NCPOR is rigorous, designed to identify individuals capable of thriving in the unique Antarctic environment. It typically involves:

• Application Scrutiny: Initial screening of applications based on qualifications, experience, and other specified criteria.
• Written Examination (if applicable): A test to assess technical knowledge, general aptitude, and problem-solving skills.
• Interview: Personal interviews to evaluate communication skills, adaptability, teamwork, and suitability for polar expeditions.
• Medical Examination: Comprehensive medical tests to ensure candidates are fit for duty in extreme cold and isolated conditions.
• Physical Fitness Test: Assessments of physical endurance and strength.
• Document Verification: Verification of all original educational and experience certificates.
• Psychological Assessment: To ensure mental resilience and compatibility with long-duration isolation.

Salary & Benefits

NCPOR offers a competitive remuneration package for Voyage Support Assistants, commensurate with the challenging nature of the role and the remote work location.

• Salary: While specific figures are not provided, the salary will be attractive and include various allowances applicable for working in polar regions.
• Contract Duration: The engagement will be on a contract basis for a period ranging from 6 to 18 months, depending on the expedition requirements.
• Additional Benefits: Selected candidates will receive comprehensive benefits, including travel to and from Antarctica, accommodation and food at the research base, medical insurance, and specialized training for polar operations. This is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience and contribute to national scientific missions.

Application process reference

Interested and eligible candidates are advised to carefully read the official notification released by NCPOR. The application process is typically offline.

• Download Application Form: Obtain the prescribed application form from the official NCPOR website (www.ncpor.res.in) or as specified in the advertisement.
• Fill Details Accurately: Complete the application form with all required personal, educational, and experience details.
• Attach Documents: Enclose self-attested copies of all necessary documents, including educational certificates, experience letters, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and recent passport-sized photographs.
• Original Document Verification: As stated in the input, applicants are required to bring original documents for verification during the selection process.
• Submission: Send the duly filled application form along with enclosures to the address mentioned in the official notification before the last date. Ensure the envelope is superscribed with the name of the post applied for.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to regularly check the NCPOR website for updates and detailed application instructions.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: To be announced in the official notification.
• Application Last Date: To be announced in the official notification. Candidates are advised to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
• Date of Interview/Selection Process: Will be communicated to shortlisted candidates.

Please refer to the official NCPOR advertisement for precise dates and deadlines.